Dr. Donohue: Dementia produces symptoms easy to spot

DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Could you please tell me how to test for dementia? I am 76 years old, and other than having emphysema from smoking, I consider myself in good physical and mental condition.

I applied for a health supplement policy but was refused due to my "medical condition." The insurance company said that my physician's report stated that I had "ongoing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease" and, to my total amazement, dementia. How are these illnesses diagnosed? -- R.L.

ANSWER: "Dementia" is a word that encompasses a large number of illnesses. Its hallmark symptoms are impaired memory, disruption of coherent thinking, an inability to retain new information, confusion about the date and surroundings, and a lack of competence to handle simple tasks like making change.

Many quick and easy tests detect dementia. One is the Mini-Mental State Examination, which a doctor can administer in the office. It tests memory, familiarity with surroundings, and the interpretation of aphorisms such as "A rolling stone gathers no moss."

The seriousness of emphysema can be quantified by pulmonary function tests -- breathing tests that can also be done in the doctor's office. Once emphysema is here, it's here to stay. But many have a small degree of emphysema and suffer no impairment to their activity or their lives.

Your letter is written with greater clarity than my response. I can't spot even traces of dementia. Ask the doctor (or another doctor) to test you so you can reapply to the insurance company.

Alzheimer's disease is the No. 1 cause of dementia. It's a cruel illness that disrupts a person's life. The Alzheimer's report enumerates its symptoms and tells how people can cope with them -- both patients and their families. Readers can order a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue -- No. 47, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.50 and the recipient's printed name and address. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.